The first thing I see when I look out my window is my flag of the United States of America blowing in the breeze. Often, I will sit and gaze at the flag - great focus for thinking. These are my musings and ramblings, and, on occasion, rants... I am unapologetic in my support of our military, our country and my devotion to God. I will honor them and pay tribute to them here.
Along the side bar you will find tributes to Oregon's fallen warriors.

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

I am always humbled by the dedication of the men and women in our military. They contain something in their souls that is missing in far too many Americans - a dedication to something larger than themselves, to each other and to our country. This is an amazing story that will be missing or misreported in the MSM. I am proud and thankful for each and every one of them. God Bless you All.

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait (Army News Service, October 16, 2006)On the way to a yearlong deployment in Iraq, 307 Soldiers of the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, participated in the Army's largest-ever reenlistment ceremony held during a deployment on Saturday.

Headquartered at Fort Richardson, Alaska, the unit ceremony took place at Camp Buehring, where the Soldiers stopped for final preparations before entering Iraq.

"This ceremony says a lot about the personal courage and selfless service of these paratroopers,: said command Sergeant Major David Turnbull, for the 4th BCT, 25th INF. "They understand they have a tough mission ahead of them and are still willing to commit themselves to continue in the Army."

The large turnout underscores the service's new campaign slogan, "Army Strong," said the brigade's commander, Col. Michael X. Garrett.

"Many are going to attribute this record-setting event to reenlistment incentives. but, on the eve of deploying north to Iraq, these paratroopers show that it is on a much more personal level," Garrett said. "These paratroopers have seen something in someone, somewhere - whether it was a squad leader, platoon leader or commander - that led to this moment."

CPL Brian Anderson, a recon scout with the unit's 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, said he reenlisted for much the same reason as his comrades. "I am reenlisting for the same reason as any other paratrooper here in this formation. I want to serve my country and I love the Army."